February 23rd
Welcoming Our New Board Chair

Time flies when you are having fun! As I look towards the end of my two-year term as Chair, it is bittersweet. In the last two years, we have had many challenges, but 2021 was strong in the midst of continued uncertainty.

As an organization and board, we have much to celebrate (and, dare I say, be proud of?).

We completed the strategic planning process, developing a new three-year strategic plan to be executed from 2022-2024. We stayed true to the people and pets in our community - we ensured our focus was on the importance of the human-animal bond, as well as keeping families and their furry, feathered or scaled friends together. This same sentiment bubbles over to our 40+ programs and services and keeps us focused on increasing community supports for pet owners in the years to come.

We welcomed new board members with diverse skill sets who share the same passion for animals that our staff and volunteers do. This incredible group lends their time and talents to help build a more humane community that loves, cares for and supports not just the animals but those who love them too.

We became one of the first fully accredited Humane Societies/SPCA’s in the country with Imagine Canada. Their trustmark reinforces the work we have done to become financially accountable and transparent, as well as our leadership in board governance, fundraising, staff management and volunteer involvement. Without the collaboration of outstanding staff, our community, and our CEO, none of this would have happened.

I’d also like to take a moment to thank Ross Wells, our previous Chair, for his tenure and leadership before me. As well as to thank all of the board members who will be stepping off the board this year for new adventures. We are so appreciative that you gave your time to this organization.

As I step into the role of Past Chair, I’m welcoming and cheering on Angela Woods as our new Chair. I hope you enjoy your time as much as I have.

I’m proud to be part of an organization that works hard to support people and pets in our communities, and I look forward to all that we can continue to accomplish together.

Sincerely,
Jacqueline Watty